PolicyLink’s Post

🌍 We all #understand from and within where we are. "Manufacturing consent" is an intrinsic part of human existence, deeply embedded in interactionist sociology. It's an existential issue that highlights our continuous struggle for "the definition of the situation." As we design social life, this competition often leads to manipulation and polarization, which threatens our shared humanity. 🤝 Seeking a "common understanding" for all of humanity is not just a noble goal—it's a sacred act. However, we must be cautious not to fall into the trap of viewing this process through a narrow lens, where only the "West" is seen as the subject of power. 🌐 Both Western and non-Western narratives shape the world we live in today, and acknowledging this diversity is crucial to overcoming polarization, a significant challenge facing humanity. As we approach the UN Summit of the Future on September 22-23, it's vital that we let the "science of understanding"guide us. By doing so, we can avoid contributing to polarization, and instead, work towards a common understanding for humanity. 🌟 Let's strive for a future where understanding transcends borders and bridges divides, fostering a world where every voice is heard and valued. 🌍💬 Our everyday acts in each moment are vital to building a common understanding, and it is a constant collective work. 💪✨ #UN #summitofthefuture #understanding #commonunderstanding #scienceofunderstanding

A lot about our country needs help and healing, and that can only continue as a democracy. A democracy with foundational cracks is better than no democracy at all. I believe the American glass is half full as a democracy. As you reflect on this blog, consider our current state of affairs. Black folks, our vote for the Biden-Harris administration is not just a choice but a responsibility and a powerful tool in remembrance of our ancestors who built America and fought for our freedoms. The Biden-Harris administration is unwavering in its commitment to upholding, securing, and improving freedom and democracy in America. This should give us all confidence in the future of our country. Reflect on democracy this July 4! https://lnkd.in/gjyEhZHW #HappyJuly4 #SupportBidenHarris #VoteforDemocracy #faithecolas #believer  #mylegacyismyfaith #voncommunications #connectingpeoplegrowingcommunity  #communityengagement #myworkmakesadifference #imeverywoman #weswagitup #melaninismysuperpower

DEMOCRATIZING OUR DEMOCRACY - PDF: https://lnkd.in/gT8cW3Q9 Loving America with a broken heart means recognizing our own country’s failure to live up to its stated democratic ideals—its failure, for too long, to provide liberty and justice for all. It means committing ourselves to achieving those ideals, by building an inclusive, multiracial democracy that all Americans can embrace.

J-Mark has explored some interesting constitutional issues and today he takes a serious look at the balence of power in the US. The Invisible Pillar: Why America Desperately Needs an Anonymous Third House America stands at a precipice, teetering between the grand vision of its founding fathers and the chaotic brinkmanship of modern politics. This nation, conceived in the crucible of debate and compromise, now finds its legislative process mired in a quagmire of division and stagnation. The bicameral system, a beacon of balance and representation, was designed to prevent the concentration of power and to ensure a diverse tapestry of voices could influence the governing of a vast, evolving landscape. Yet, as the sands of the political arena shift, this system increasingly serves as a battleground for partisan warfare rather than a forum for constructive dialogue.....read more below https://wix.to/eEpeykx

Reparations is defined as making amends for a past wrongdoing by apology, money, or otherwise. The challenge to enact the concept is to take a long view to understand and to take appropriate actions. As such, the United States would have to make major concessions for its generations-long practice of slavery. Attempts to rectify the enslavement of African Americans with their descendants were enacted with government policies during Reconstruction, after slavery’s official end. The Library has several titles covering this issue with historical and political accounts. Learn more --> https://bit.ly/3VjqnTn

In this special edition of Public Policy Talks, Markee Tate, President of Advancing Black Businesses, hosts a dynamic live session from Top Golf Atlanta. This episode delves into the dual celebration of Juneteenth and the nuances of local politics, highlighting how historical events and current political dynamics intertwine to shape our community. In this engaging discussion, Markee: • Reflects on the historical significance of Juneteenth and its implications on current racial and economic disparities. • Provides an overview of recent local elections, emphasizing the impact of community involvement in political processes. • Discuss upcoming events, including the second annual golf tournament at Top Golf Atlanta, and encourage community participation. • Offers insights into the importance of public policy advocacy and the role of business leaders in fostering economic development through active political engagement. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the deeper connections between our past and present struggles for justice and equality and how they relate to the economic empowerment of the Black community. Key Moments: Reflection on Juneteenth and its ongoing relevance. • Discussion on the outcomes of recent local elections and what they signify for business and community development. • Highlights of the upcoming golf tournament at Top Golf Atlanta and its significance as a networking and fundraising event. • Call to action for greater community involvement in public policy and local governance. Subscribe to our channel for more Public Policy Talks and stay informed about how you can contribute to shaping a more equitable future. https://lnkd.in/eeB_z-Nb

America’s founding required ideas and institutions—and statesmen and citizen capable of both. Led by Adam White of the American Enterprise Institute, OUR CONSTITUTIONAL FOUNDING pursues a deeper understanding of our Constitution by studying the intellectual and political debates surrounding its founding, from the original ideas to the original institutions. Apply for this course by 03.04.24: https://lnkd.in/eDfcfZwc #ConstitutionalStudiesProgram

"America’s challenges are not going to be addressed until there’s the civic capacity to do so". Check out this insightful article from Governing which explores what civic capacity is and why communities should tap into it: https://ow.ly/xijz50Ru5FA

This should be a topic of national discourse in the presidential campaign. 40 ACRES AND A LIE. Let's have a national conversation about an extraordinary issue that covers socialist economics, white supremacy & systemic racism: the misuse of American government power to rob 8 generations of Black Americans while rewarding White supremacists who abused Black Americans with generational wealth. This systemic robbery and abuse didn't magically disappear because it has been banned from being discussed in schools, churches & politics. As a country, we continue to pass to each generation unresolved issues of the past. We also pass forward the problems that continue to worsen while the solution gets more complicated. We inherited the conditions that previous generations created. Will we address these problems and seek to resolve them or simply pass them on to future generations? Let's listen and discuss. https://lnkd.in/gwHsnVdC

How can citizens' assemblies reshape American governance? New America, FIDE - North America, and #ColumbiaWorldProjects met on April 18th to answer this question. "Lessons Learned: Exploring Citizens' Assemblies for Federal Engagement" united government officials, civic practitioners, and global experts at New America’s D.C. headquarters to explore how citizens' assemblies might support the work of federal agencies in shaping policies informed by public participation.   Learn more today: https://lnkd.in/e58eGBA7   #ColumbiaGlobal #ThinkingMeetsDoing #ColumbiaUniversity